Can Reflexology Get Rid of Gout

Hydrotherapy is commonly known for assisting in the elimination of gout.  Hydrotherapy is the use of water to achieve therapeutic benefit and relaxation. Hydrotherapy can include jet massages, steam baths, mineral springs, seawater soaks (see Thalassotherapy), and various types of shower experiences.  Gout is a disease in which defective metabolism of uric acid causes arthritis in joints – most commonly the big toe.  The uric acid crystallizes and builds up in and around the joints.
There are other effective and alternative treatments used to treat gout.  A very popular option is Reflexology.  Reflexology has been very effective to sufferers of gout.  Reflexology treats the whole body through the feet.  In cases of gout there is often a compromised circulation and poor kidney function.  Reflexology assists the body to metabolize the uric acid in the body’s system as well as improve circulation and kidney function.
So what is reflexology? Reflexology, is an alternative therapy that involves the stimulation of specific points on the feet, hands and ears, for the purpose of promoting positive healing effects on other parts of the body.  Medical science agrees that this treatment can work due to the fact that there are several thousand nerve endings on the soles of the feet.  During a treatment, the nerves are stimulated and send signals to the brain which send the relevant message to the corresponding organ – so there is no mystery or magic involved.  At our clinics it’s the feet that are most commonly treated; as we find the feet display the body’s internal health much more clearly than the hands, ears or face. You don’t have to have a health issue or be unwell to have a Reflexology treatment as it can be used for maintenance as well.
As Reflexologists we understand that the foot is made up of various reflex zones that correspond to all the organs in the body. The theory is that the use of pressure through massage will stimulate a reaction within the body via the nerves in order to trigger self-healing.  When your body has a problem, there are signs of the problem that show up on your feet in the form of tiny crystals.  Points of tension, hard or dry skin and possibly aches or pains felt by the client and are indications of illness or imbalance within the body.
Reflexology treatment has been known to –

·         Reduce or eliminate migraines or headaches

·         Improve posture and alleviate back & shoulder pain

·         Improve circulation

·         Help with skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and acne

·         Improve chemical function in the body

·         Remove toxins

·         Calm nerve endings

·         Aid in conception

·         Encourage overall relaxation

·         Reduce stress

·         Encourage normal body functioning

·         Help with IBS, colitis, diverticulitis

·         Many others…

What benefits does reflexology offer gout sufferers?  In the battle against gout, reflexology is used to assist the kidneys to function more efficiently.  There are many things in daily life that can cause our kidneys to product uric acid or stop normal function.  During a reflexology treatment the therapist will work on the kidney point and the adrenal glands as well as circulation.  Also, particular attention will be paid to the urethra, bladder and any other organs that indirectly support the kidney function.
The kidneys are the organs that are in charge of uric acid production. Therefore, if the nerve endings related to the kidneys are is stimulated through the corresponding points in both feet (both feet need to be involved as there are two kidneys) and can help the kidneys lower uric acid production.  Reflexology can also be used to break up uric acid crystal deposits that are found in the area of the foot that relate to the kidneys.  Also, the therapist will talk to you about your diet and lifestyle in order to find some small workable changes that may need to happen in order for you maintain your health.
Of course, you will experience effects during, directly after, or 24-48 hours following a treatment. These may not always seem positive but they ARE a very good indication that your body is responding to treatment.  Some people may experience nausea, headaches or sinus congestion.  These are affects that we commonly refer to as a healing crises, due often to a massive toxin release and extra energy spent by the body’s attempt to balance internal organs. On the flip side a client may experience relief from pain, have more energy and vitality.  The less desirable side affects are often very short lived, lasting from one hour to one day after treatment.

Following a treatment we recommend clients drink plenty of water, eat a light meal and rest.  We want you to avoid alcohol, caffeine, sugary drinks, fatty processed foods, over exertion and taking any medication – other than those prescribed by your GP.

Nico Austin is the founder of Nico Tailored Therapies in London.  Nico is dedicated to improving the quality of health and wellbeing through her remedial and holistic healing therapies. For more information about Nico Austin or Nico Tailored Therapies and its services you can visit the web site at http://www.NicoTailoredTherapis.com